Device and method for inflating and repairing tires and other inflatables

ABSTRACT

Devices are taught for filling a tire with air, gas or a liquid and repairing the tire. In one embodiment, the tire repair tool discloses an transmittal control section, with the transmittal control section comprising a proximal end, the proximal end having an opening a distal end, with the distal end having a centralized opening to align with a punctureable seal at a proximal end of a gas cartridge; a passageway positioned between the proximal end of the gas cartridge and the distal end; and a puncture tool which can puncture the punctureable seal of the gas cartridge. The puncture tool is positioned at the distal end of the transmittal control section along the air passage way. An insertion tube comprises an air inlet at a distal end of the insertion tube which is connected to the opening of the proximal end of the transmittal control section. A gas outlet passes air from a gas cartridge through the air passage way through the transmittal control section into the air inlet of the insertion tube and through the gas outlet.

This application is a divisional of Ser. No. 15/732,489, filed Nov. 20,2017, which claimed priority to U.S. provisional application 62/424,966,filed Nov. 21, 2016, as well as to U.S. provisional application filed62/602,260, filed Apr. 19, 2017, and U.S. provisional application62/602,611, filed May 1, 2017, incorporated herein by reference.

A tire repair 1 is disclosed which can repair and inflate tires throughthe puncture or cut in the tire. The tire is repaired by the use andinsertion of a special plug or cord material. The tool can also be usedto repair and/or inflate other elastomeric items.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The figures depict various embodiments of the described methods andsystem and are for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the artwill readily recognize from the following discussion that alternativeembodiments of the methods and systems illustrated herein may beemployed without departing from the principles of the methods andsystems described herein.

FIG. 1 is an overhead view of the tire repair tool;

FIG. 2 is a partial cross sectional view of a repair tool with a tirerepair plug and insertion tube inserted into the tire;

FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the tire repair tool;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view showing the tire repair tool with thetire plug inserted into a bicycle tire, with the user wearing a glove;

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of one embodiment of part of the tirerepair tool;

FIG. 6 is another cross-sectional view of another part of the tirerepair tool;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the front section of the tire repairtool;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the a tire repair tool with the doubleknurled tool body;

FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the tire repair tool with the doubleknurled tool body;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the insertion tube;

FIG. 11 is an exploded cross sectional view of one embodiment of thetire repair tool;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cap that fits over the lower end ofthe tire repair tool;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the cartridge tip piercing component;

FIG. 14 is a side view of the cartridge tip piercing component;

FIG. 15a is a cross section of the tire repair tool showing tip piercingcomponent in the open position allowing for the flow of air;

FIG. 15b is a cross section of the tire repair tool showing the tippiercing component piercing the seal and penetrating the cartridge inthe closed position;

FIG. 16 is a cross section of the tire repair tool having a largeinsertion tube;

FIG. 17 is a cross section of the tire repair tool having a standardinsertion tube;

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool;

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool having the largerrepair plug with a larger insertion tube;

FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool for a tire repairtool having an inflation only tip;

FIG. 21 is an exploded view of tire repair tool having a largerinflation only tip;

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool with an adapter thatworks to inflate tires with either a Presta or a Schrader valve stem;

FIG. 23 is a side view of a tire repair tool with a puncturing tip;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a tire repair tool with a Schrader orPresta adapter;

FIG. 25 is a side view and partial cutaway view of another embodiment ofthe tire repair tool having a ball valve lever to open and shut off theflow of CO₂ gas;

FIG. 26 is a side view and of another embodiment of the tire repair toolhaving a digital readout device;

FIG. 27a is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the tire repairtool for use in inflating the tire only;

FIG. 27b is a cross sectional view of the alternative embodiment of FIG.27 b;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a plugger;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a plugger;

FIG. 30 is a side view of the plugger embodiment of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the plugger;

FIG. 32 is a side view of the plugger embodiment of FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the plugger attached to the tire repairtool with a repair cord positioned within the tongs;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the plugger attached to the tire repairtool without the repair cord;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the repair tool with a cartridgesleeve;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the repair tool with the cartridgesleeve;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the repair tool with the cartridgesleeve and “T” handle with the use of a cord plugger;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the repair tool with the cartridgesleeve and “T” handle with an insert tube;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment with a gasflow button switch using a threaded or unthreaded CO₂ cartridge;

FIG. 40 is a cross sectional view of the repair tool with the gas flowbutton switch in the closed position;

FIG. 41 is a cross sectional view of the repair tool with the gas flowbutton switch in the open position;

FIG. 42 is a side perspective view of another embodiment of the repairtool having a driver housing with a thumb screw positioned along the Xaxis of the body for threaded or non-threaded CO₂ cartridges;

FIG. 43 is a side perspective view of another embodiment of the repairtool having a driver housing with a thumb screw positioned along the Xaxis of the body for use with threaded or non-threaded CO₂ cartridges;

FIG. 44 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a partial cross sectional view of an alternative embodimentof the repair tool;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment of therepair tool of FIG. 45;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of the insertion tube with a keyed spiralrepair plug;

FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view of the insertion tube with a keyedspiral repair plug and check valve;

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the setup to inflate and repair anytubeless tires including an automobile or truck tire using analternative embodiment of the tool;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49, after thecartridge is inserted;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49, after thetool has been connected to the power drill;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49 after theinsertion tube has been driven into the tubeless tire;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49, after thedrill has been disconnected from the tool to allow for the removal ofthe cartridge;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view from the inside of the tire showing thepenetration of the insertion tube and spiral tip;

FIG. 55 is a close up perspective view from the inside of the tireshowing the penetration of the insertion tube and spiral tip;

FIG. 56 is a perspective view showing the spiral conical metal tip whichremains on the inside of the tire;

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49, showingdisengagement of the embodiment of the tool from the tire;

FIG. 58 is a cross section of the embodiment of FIG. 49 with a checkvalve;

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a cartridge less tire repair tool usingan electric inflator;

FIG. 60 is a partially cross-sectional view of the cartridge less tirerepair tool;

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of another use of the cartridge less tirerepair tool using a quick connect female air fitting;

FIG. 62 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a cartridgeless tire repair tool using a male quick connect fitting;

FIG. 63 is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a cartridgeless tire repair tool which uses a Schrader or Presta male valve stemconnector;

FIG. 64 is a perspective view of the tool having a coiled air hoseinstead of an insertion tube;

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of an adapter used in FIG. 65;

FIG. 66 is cross sectional view of another embodiment of the device forrepairing and filling a tire by injecting a sealant;

FIG. 67 is a cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 66 after theplunger has been moved to the proximal end of the device;

FIG. 68 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of FIG. 67 whichincludes an insertion tube with a repair plug for repairing a tire afterinjecting a sealant;

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of for an insertion tube with an adapter,carrying a filler cord;

FIG. 70 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 69; and

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 68, without theinclusion of the filler cord.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

Referring to FIGS. 1-71, the tire repair tool 1 comprises a CO₂cartridge (or canister) 2, a knurled body 3, and an insertion tube 4.The gas cartridge 2 is attached to the knurled body 3, and the insertiontube 4 is attached to the knurled body. The knurled body 2 is theintermediate structure that controls the flow of gas from the gascartridge and into the insertion tube. The insertion tube is the deviceby which a tire or other inflatable item receives air. In someembodiments, the insertion tube 4 is also used to repair tires or otherinflatable items.

In one embodiment, the knurled body 3 of the tire repair tool 1 hasknurling on the outside circumference of its round body. The knurledbody can have one knurled ring 9 or at least two knurled rings 9, 10around the body 3 (FIG. 8). While the term “knurled body” is usedthroughout this specification for simplicity, the term “body” or“knurled body” is more accurately be referred to as a transmittalcontrol section 3.

It should also be noted that the body 3 does not have to have knurling,and, in an alternative embodiment, the body can have a variety of othergrip enhancing features, if so desired. The body 3 can range in sizefrom about ½″ to 2″. The body can be larger or smaller and can be sizedto comfort or need, depending on the size of the hand of the user,comfort factors, and the size of the item(s) being inflated.

While the body 3 is described as circumferentially round, in alternativeembodiments, the body, or more correctly its cross section orcircumference, can have any number of polygonal shapes. . . . In oneembodiment, any or all of the main parts, such as the cartridge, thebody, and the insertion tube 4 can be made of metal, plastic, or acombination thereof. In one embodiment, the materials used in themanufacture of the knurled body 3 and the insertion tube 4 need towithstand higher pressures and lower temperatures, as compressed gasesare, of course, under pressure and are usually much colder than thesurrounding environs. The gas cartridge 2 can be of almost any length.What is important is that the cartridge 2 and the body 3 be able tomate. In other circumstances, and in other embodiments, described infra,the body 3 has a mount for attachment of an air hose. All embodiments ofthe air body have an air passageway 12 which allows the air or CO₂ ofthe cartridge 2 to pass through the body 3 and out through a hose or aninsertion tube 4.

In the present embodiment, there is a first female threaded section 7inside 5 of the distal end 6 of the knurled body 3. This first femalethreaded section 7 mates with and threads with male threads 8 on the gascartridge 2. The gas cartridge 2 is thus firmly affixed to the knurledbody 3. While threaded sections are shown in the figures, the gascartridge 2 can be mated to the knurled body by different means,including snap fittings, locking mechanisms, etc. It should be notedthat almost any gas (such as nitrogen) can be used in the gas cartridge2, as long as the gas does not adversely affect the item into which thegas is to be filled. The gas used should also not adversely affect thetire repair tool 1. Gases including but not limited to carbon dioxide orair can be used. It should also be noted that the gas cartridges 2 canalso include a pressurized liquid, which in some circumstances can beused to repair a tire. An example of using both liquids and gases incombination would be inflating a tire through the injury using acombination of CO₂ and sealant. This is much faster than repairing atire through the valve which requires the time consuming task ofremoving the “core” from the valve stem to inject the sealant, replacingthe core, and then inflating the tire through the valve, risking thepossibility that the valve can get clogged from the sealant, dust anddirt, etc.

A cartridge seal 11 fitted over the proximal end of the threads of thecartridge 2 serves to seal the gas or pressurized liquid within thecartridge until needed. The cartridge seal 11 is usually made of steel,which is the “standard” in the industry, although some other metalcoverings may be used.

Referring to FIG. 11, the insertion tube 4 is connected to the proximalend of the knurled body 3. Referring to FIGS. 6 through 10, theinsertion tube 4 has, at its distal end 27, male threads 28 which arethreaded into threads 26 within the proximal end 25 of the knurled body3. In one embodiment, the insertion tube 4 has a collar 29 below thethreads 28 which fit within the proximal opening 30 of the knurled body.There is an “o” ring 31 which fits tightly on top of the collar 29 andtightly around the female threads, thereby preventing or limiting air,gas, or liquid leakage. It should be noted that while threads aredescribed to connect the insertion tube 4 to said body 3, any form ofconnection can be used for attachment, as long as the insertion tube 4does not come off when air passes through the body 3 into the insertiontube 4. In another embodiment, the insertion tube 4 is “permanently” orintegrally attached to the body 3.

In one embodiment, the insertion tube 4 has an upper section 33 and alower section 34, separated by an air impermeable wall or solid barrier35. The wall 35 can be made of any material compatible with theinsertion tube 4, but is normally made of the same material as theinsertion tube 4. As such, in one embodiment, the wall is integrallymolded with the wall 35. The upper section 33 has at least one hole 36,and in another embodiment, two holes 36, 37 through which the CO₂ gas,other gas (es), or combinations of liquids and gas flow(s) to inflatethe tire (FIG. 3). In yet another embodiment, there are a plurality ofholes through which the gases and/or liquids can flow. It should benoted that where the term “gas” or “air” is used throughout thisdisclosure, the terms can be inclusive of gas, air, liquid, and anycombination thereof. “Air” passageways referred to in this disclosurecan allow for the passage of air, gas, liquid, or any combinationthereof.

In one embodiment, (Seen in FIGS. 9, 10 and 2, 3, 7) lower section 34has an opening 38 at its proximal end 39. Within the opening 38 therecan be fitted with at least one repair plug 40 (as described in U.S.Pat. No. 8,707,829, issued Apr. 29, 2014, and U.S. Pat. No. 9,067,368,issued Jun. 30, 2015, both incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.) (FIGS. 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 18) The repair plug 40comprises a pointed conical metal tip 41 ending having at its distal enda circumferential shoulder 42 and a tip collar 43 positioned proximallyto the circumferential shoulder 42. A rubberized impregnated cord 44 isattached to an inside of a distal end of the conical tip 41.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 9, in another embodiment, there is a reverseblocking valve 300 in the upper section 33 of the insertion tube 4. Inone embodiment, the reverse blocking valve is formed by a resilientmember such as a check valve compression spring 46, and a ball bearingseal 47 on top of the valve compression spring 46. On top of the ballbearing seal 47 is an O-ring seal 48 for the positioning of the ballbearing seal 47 and on top of the O-ring seal 48 is a threaded ring stop49, which is then screwed into an inside threaded channel 50 of theinsertion tube 4 has at its distal end 27. This reverse blocking valveprevents the loss of tire pressure during a pressurized cartridgechange, if necessary, such that the air from the higher air pressuredtire is prevented from escaping by the ball bearing seal 47 pushed upagainst the O-ring seal, preventing air from escaping.

In one embodiment, the insertion tube 4 could be anywhere from ¾″ to 6″or more long. For example, in one embodiment, when in use with largertires, the insertion tube 4 is longer. In another embodiment, theinsertion tube 4 is ¾″ to 4″ long, and in another embodiment, theinsertion tube 4 is from about 1″ to about 3″ long. Sizes may varyoutside of these parameters.

In order for the gas to be released from the cartridge 2 and travelthrough the body 3, the seal 11 securing the pressurized gas in thecartridge 2 must be broken. . . . A number of structures may be usedthat allows for the piercing of the gas cartridge seal 11.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the knurled body 3 comprises acartridge tip piercing component 51 having a hollow pin 52 extendingthrough the cartridge tip body 53. The hollow pin 52 extends far enoughsuch that when the gas cartridge is threaded far enough into the knurledbody 4, the hollow pin pierces the cartridge thread seal. When the seal11 is pierced, the CO₂ passes directly from the gas cartridge 2 throughthe cartridge tip piercing component 51, and through the insertion tube4. In one embodiment, the end of the hollow pin is at an angle to makepiercing the seal easier.

FIGS. 9 and 11-15 are directed towards another embodiment thatefficiently releases and conserves the CO₂ gas in the cartridge. FIG. 13illustrates a cartridge tip piercing component 203 having a continuousair groove 32 in the shoulder 204 and elongated body 205. There is apiercing tip shoulder rim 202, as well as an elongated body rim 199. InFIG. 13, there is also an O-ring 901.

More specifically, FIG. 9 shows the placement of the cartridge piercingcomponent 203 within the tool 1. When the cartridge is screwed into thebody, the conical piercing tip 201 of the cartridge tip piercingcomponent 203 efficiently and easily pierces the flat steel seal orflexible seal 11 covering one end of the cartridge 2, so thatpressurized gas can flow from the cartridge 2, through the body 3, andthrough the insertion tube 4 and into the tire or the item beinginflated. However, if the canister is continuously rotated clockwise,the seal and/or solid rim will be positioned against the piercing tipshoulder rim 202, which will effectively prevent air from escapingthrough the cartridge 2. The O-rings 901 and 18 help prevent anyincidental leakage from escaping from the tool or from going through thebody 3 out the insertion tube.

In another embodiment of the tip piercing component, there is a groove900 around the shoulder rim 202 where an O-ring 901 is fitted. Thecontinuous air groove 32 which allows for air to flow from the cartridge2 to the body 3 and through the insertion tube begins at the base of theshoulder 204. FIG. 11 shows the cartridge piercing component 203 in usewithout the groove 900 and without the O-ring 901. This is shown inFIGS. 9, 15 a, and 15 b.

FIGS. 15a and 15b illustrate the effectiveness of the cartridge piercingcomponent in preventing undesired loss of CO₂ from the cartridge. FIG.15a shows the air passageway as the seal 11 is being pierced by theconical piercing tip 201, just when the gas cartridge 2 is threadedclockwise, but not so far as to cut off air flow. The arrows in the FIG.15a shows the passage of air from the cartridge 2 and through thecontinuous air groove 32 and down through the insertion tube.

As shown in FIG. 15b , when the cartridge is rotated clockwise a bitmore, the seal 11 is fit tightly against the piercing tip shoulder rim202. The opening pierced by the conical piercing tip 201 effectivelyplugs the very hole it created. O-rings 18 and O-ring 901 act to preventany other possible leakage from metal and plastic imperfections. Toallow air to flow from the cartridge 2, the body 3, and eventually outthrough the insertion tube 4, the cartridge 2 is rotated counterclockwise until the cartridge 2 is backed far enough away from thecartridge piercing component 203 to allow gas to flow from the cartridge2, through the continuous air groove 32 and eventually out through theinsertion tube 4 or other attachment to the body 3.

When the tire repair tool 1 is inserted into the tire either prior to orafter the seal 11 is pierced by the conical piercing tip 201, theinsertion tube 4 is entirely or almost entirely within the tire. In oneembodiment, the CO₂ cartridge 2 is screwed into the knurled body 3,wherein the conical pierce tip 201 of the cartridge tip piercingcomponent 203 pierces the cartridge seal 11 covering the threads 8 ofthe proximal end of the CO2 cartridge 2. The compressed gas begins toflow through the tire repair tool 1 including through the insert tube 4,and into the tire. If more air (gas) is needed, the CO₂ cartridge 2 canbe unscrewed and replaced with a fresh cartridge. If enough gas has beenused, the cartridge can be rotated clockwise to cut off the flow of gasfrom the cartridge 2. In one embodiment, an insertion tube cover 50 fitsover the insertion tube, and in another embodiment, the distal end 51fits up against the knurling 9 of the knurled body 3. There are a numberof possible embodiments so the insertion tube cover 50, as shown inFIGS. 12 and 13. The insertion tube cover 50 is not a necessity, but itdoes protect the insertion tube when it is connected to the body 3, andit can be removed when the repair tool 1 is needed. Additionally, in theevent of a bicycle crash, the insertion tube cover 50 helps preventimpalement or other injury by the brass or other tip materials, when acyclist is carrying the tool in their pocket or on their person.

A hole 206 in the proximal end of the insertion tube cover 50 allows airto escape if, in an extremely unusual situation, a gas cartridge 2loosens. Similarly, without hole 206, if someone intentionally opened avalve to test it, pressure could build inside the cap, potentiallycreating a dangerous projectile which could cause harm or injury. Thehole 206 in the insertion tube cover 50 prevents this possibility.

Once the tire is inflated, the tire repair tool 1 is withdrawn. Becausethe shoulder of the conical tip 41 may be the same size or fractionallylarger than the insertion tube 4, the conical tip 41 with the repairplug 40 easily separates from the insertion tube 4 as the insertion tube4 is withdrawn, allowing filling the hole in the tire by the repair plug40, thereby preventing air leakage. The tire is thus inflated andrepaired

FIGS. 16 and 17 are cross sections of two different insertion tubes 54and 4. Insertion tube 54 is a large insertion tube and insertion tube 4is a normal sized insertion tube. In one embodiment, the part ofinsertion tube 54 that connects to the body 3 is the same size as thatof insertion tube 4 but the tube holding the insertion tube is wider.For instance, the large insertion tube 54 accommodates a large repairplug 57 and can be from about 0.15 to about 0.22 inches wide, while theplug for the “normal” sized insert tubes can range from about 0.10 toabout 0.14 inches wide as measured on the inside. The length of therepair plug can range from about 0.7 inches to about 1.5 inches. In someembodiments, the plug can be longer such as for heavy duty bus or trucktires.

FIGS. 18-22 represent a variety of different embodiments of thedisclosure and of the attachments to the proximal end of the knurledbody 3.

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool, as described withthe normal sized insertion tube 4 with a regular repair plug 40. FIG. 19is an exploded view of the tire repair tool having the larger repairplug 57 with a large insertion tube 54, which is used for larger holesas described supra.

FIG. 20 shows an exploded view of a repair tire tool with an inflationonly insertion tube 56. In this embodiment, the inflation only tip 56allows inflation through a cut or puncture injury in the tire. In oneembodiment after the tire is filled with air, gas, liquid, or acombination thereof, the tire can be repaired using the plug systemdescribed in the patents cited, supra. More specifically, in theembodiment shown in FIG. 20, the tip of the insertion tube is blunt, notsharp.

FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the tire repair tool having a largeinflation only tip, also known as an oral inflation valve 200. The tipis just an open passageway, with no impediments. This tip has theability to fill inflatable life jackets and other pneumatic flotationdevices by just inserting the tip into the flip up valve. FIG. 22 is anexploded view of the tire repair tool with an attachment that adapts theinflation cartridge to inflate tires having Presta/Schrader valve stem69 (also referred to as an American/French valve stem). FIG. 24, isanother angular view of the tire repair tool showing another embodimentallowing a different inflation tool for use for inflation of a tirethrough a Presta/Schrader valve stem.

Referring to FIG. 23, in contrast to inflation of a tire through a valvestem, the proximal insertion tube 59 ends in a sharp slanted point toallow for the tube to push through the wound in the tire and fill thetire with air.

It should be noted that the threaded attachment for each of the variousattachments or various insertion tubes is the same as it is for theinsertion tube in FIG. 18.

In some situations, it is not necessary to use all of the gas in the gascartridge, while at the same time the user or customer does not want tokeep screwing and unscrewing the air or CO₂ cartridge 2 to control airflow. In such situations, and in the embodiment found in FIG. 25, a ballor globe valve 60 is positioned along passageway 12 on the inside 5 ofthe knurled body 3. Other valve systems could be used. In oneembodiment, the valve is fully integrated with the body 3, and the valve60 is operated by the use of a ball valve lever 61. The valve is locatedbelow the cartridge tip piercing component 51 and above the insertiontube 4. In one embodiment, if the insertion tube 4 is long enough, theball valve 60 can be positioned on the insertion tube 4 above holes 36,37. Rotating the valve lever 61 90 degrees will commence or interruptthe flow of air, CO₂, or other gases through the air passageway 12 andout through the holes 36, 37 of insertion tube 4.

In another embodiment (FIG. 26), the tool 1 includes a pressure gauge 62with a digital readout 63 of the tire pressure measured in pounds persquare inch or in kilograms per square centimeter or bar. The pressuregauge 62 is positioned as integral with and part of or attached to theknurled body 3. In one embodiment, the pressure gauge 62 is positionedat the distal end of the insertion tube 4 and at the proximal end of theknurled body 3. In one embodiment, bleed valve 64 is part of thepressure gauge 62 which allows for the release of air when the airpressure of the tire is too great. In another embodiment, the bleedvalve 64 is not part of the pressure gauge 62. In one embodiment, thebleed valve 64 is positioned at or above the digital readout 63,although there may be variations of its position.

Another embodiment of the disclosure eliminated the need for having ahole 36 or holes 36, 37 in the side of the insertion tube 4. In thisembodiment, the air or CO₂ through a hole 66 in a puncture tip 67. Inthis embodiment, there is no need for a barrier wall 35 in the insertiontube 4.

In another embodiment (FIG. 27), there is a needle tube 67 which passesfrom an air passage way 35. The air passageway 35 extends from thedistal end to the middle of the insertion tube 4 and helps channel airor CO₂ into the needle tube 67. In this embodiment, the needle tube 67connects with and is integral with the opening 66 through the proximalend of the needle tube 67. The needle tube 67 can be connected to theair passageway 35 by a threaded connection, an O-ring at the proximalend of the passageway 35, or any other means known in the art. The toolis inserted into the tire to inflate it, and can then be withdrawn,whereupon hole can be repaired by any method. In yet another embodimentthat is quick and easy, the tire can be repaired using a Dynaplug tirerepair tool or any other tire repair kit after inflation.

In another embodiment, either integral with, wedged on or mated threadedon the proximal section of the insertion tube 4 are pluggers 76, 77, 78,(FIGS. 28-34), used to plug cord or some similar substance into a holein a tire so as to plug a leak. In one embodiment, each of thesepluggers incorporate or are integral with the insertion tube, with atleast one hole 79, 80, 81 for the release of the CO₂, or gases, orliquid/gas combination into the tire or other inflatable item. In oneembodiment, the distal end 82, 83, 84, of the pluggers have a threadedsection 85, 86, 87 that is threaded into the proximal end of the knurledbody 3, the threads being complementary to the threaded section of thebody. A collar 88, 89, 90 limits the degree to which the plugger isthreaded into the knurled body 3. The collar 88, 89, 90, may serve as anO-ring or may have an O-ring positioned on top of the collar to preventair leakage. In one embodiment, the pluggers are integrally molded withor attached to the body 3.

In another embodiment, the proximal end of the insertion tube isthreaded, and the pluggers, threaded at their distal end, such that thepluggers are attached to the insertion tube. In alternative embodiments,other means of attachment are available, including gluing, welding,wedging or any other means, here and throughout the description.

FIG. 33 shows one embodiment, wherein a plugger 76 is threaded into thebody with the body attached to the canister. A filler cord 91 ispositioned or wedged between tongs 92, 93. The plugger tip 94 is pushedin through the hole in the tire up to the distal end of the plugger 76(or insertion tube 4). The gas cartridge 2 is screwed down, and theconical piercing tip 201 or pin 52 pierces the cartridge seal 11 andinflation gas flows from the cartridge 2, through the body 3, throughthe plugger 76 and out through hole 79 and into the tire. Once the tireis inflated, the plugger is withdrawn, and the cord 91, which is held bythe tire by friction, fills the hole, limiting or preventing leakage.FIG. 33 shows the tool without the cord 91.

In another embodiment, the tire repair tool 1 has a cartridge sleeve 95.The cartridge sleeve 95 fits around and “grabs” the cartridge 2. In oneembodiment, when the cartridge 2 is filled with gas, and when it passesthrough the body 3, and the temperature of the metal parts of the tool 1may drop precipitously; consequently, it is recommended to use gloveswhen handling the tool. The use of the cartridge sleeve 95 negates orlargely negates the need for the use of gloves, and the cartridge sleeveallows for easier manipulation of the tire repair tool 1, and inparticular, the rotation of the cartridge 2.

In one embodiment, the body is made out of a high durometer or highdensity silicon. In another embodiment, the cartridge sleeve 95 is madeout of a high quality plastic, or a hard rubber. In one embodiment, thecartridge sleeve could be slightly oversized (from about 3% to about 5%)to slide on the cartridge 2 easily but as soon as it is gripped with onehand, it would create an exceptional friction grip to rotate thecartridge 2 to allow for the release or closure of the flow of gas. Inanother embodiment, a lower durometer cartridge sleeve 5 is easilystretched over the cartridge 2. The cartridge sleeve 95 has a distalsection 96, a middle section 98, and a proximal end 99. In oneembodiment, the distal end has a hole 97 perpendicular through thedistal section, with the hole being from ¼″ to 1″ and large enough toput a t-handle 100 through. The handle t-handle 100 can be made out ofwood, steel, aluminum or any other rigid material that does not easilybreak. The handle 100 allows the plugger to be worked into the tire, asheavier larger tires often require that more force be applied to thetool 1 to work it into the tire.

In one embodiment, the middle section 98 has a plurality of openings101, 102, 103 which are positioned around the gas cylinder 2. In anotherembodiment, there are no openings. The purpose of the openings 101, 102,103 are to give the cartridge sleeve 95 enough flexibility to be fittedover the cartridge 2.

In one embodiment, the proximal end 99 of the cartridge sleeve 95 has acircumference 104 that grips the gas cylinder/cartridge, such that thecartridge sleeve 95 will not slip when positioned on the cartridge 2.

In another embodiment, the distal end 96 of the cartridge sleeve 95 issolid or dense 105 (with the exception of the hole 97). In oneembodiment, the distal end of the cartridge sleeve terminates in av-rest 106 in which the distal end of the cartridge 2 resides. Thecartridge can be rotated by firmly grasping the cartridge sleeve androtating or turning the cartridge until the seal 17 is punctured.Furthermore, the solid section 105 of the cartridge sleeve 95 helpsensure that the rotation of the t-handle 100 will not result in unduewear and tear on the cartridge sleeve 95.

It should be noted that either a regular insertion tube 4 with a repairplug 40 can be attached to the body 2 or a plugger of any sort may beused.

In another embodiment, a control button 107 (FIGS. 39-41) allows for thecontrol of passage of air from the cartridge 2 through the body 3 andout through the insertion tube 4. In one embodiment the control button107 is positioned through the body 3 of the repair tool 1. A spring 108inside of the button apparatus prevents gas flowing into the insertiontube such that the gas from the cylinder will not flow until the controlbutton 107 is pressed. There are two O-rings 109, 110. The first O-ring109 is positioned in a cutout 111 in the button shaft 112 below thecontrol button 107. The second O-ring 110 is positioned angularly belowthe first O-ring 109, positioned in a second cut out 113 in the buttonshaft 112.

The two O-rings 109,110 are positioned such that when the control button107 is in the closed position, the sections of the O-rings 109 arepositioned above the air passageway 12 and are positioned against aproximal wall 114 of the control button 107 within the body. In thisstate, and as shown in FIG. 40, the air or gas from the cylinder passesthrough the hollow pin 52 or through a double puncture wall 115 throughthe air passageway in the distal wall of the 116 of the control buttonsuch that CO₂ gas pressurizes the chamber 117 between the O-rings whenthe pin 52 punctures the cartridge.

When the button 107 is pressed CO₂ gas can flow from the sealed offchamber to the insertion tube 4.

The walls of the extended cartridge sleeve do not terminate at the endof the cartridge 2 but have the extended cartridge sleeve 118. Theinside wall 121 of the extended cartridge sleeve 118 are threaded. Thewalled body 119 has extension walls 122 from its distal end, wherein theoutside 123 of the walls are threaded. This allows for the threading ofthe cartridge sleeve 118 on to the extension walls. Of course, thewalled body also has the button control opening 124. The combination ofthe external canister sleeve 118 and the walled body 119 form a shell ordriver housing 125.

Because not all gas cartridges or cartridges are threaded or are eventhe same size, a driver housing 125 needs to be adaptable to the variousforms and sizes of the cartridges. In one embodiment (FIGS. 42-44), anelongated thumb screw 126 is positioned through a hole 127 in a cap 12at the distal end of the driver housing 125. In another embodiment, thehole 127 is threaded. As the elongated thumb screw 126 is turned, thecartridge is pushed down towards the body 3 and towards the pin insertwhich will puncture the seal 11 on the cartridge 2. Because of thelength within the driver housing 125, different sized cartridges of CO₂with different amounts of CO₂ can be inserted within said driver housing125. The thumbscrew 126 or equivalent embodiment is used both to securethe cartridge 2 in place and to drive the cartridge 2 forward, towardsthe pin insert. In one embodiment, there is a molded cap 128 connectedto the proximal end 129 of the thumbscrew. The molded cap 128 isconcavely contoured to fit the distal end 130 of the canister 2. In oneembodiment, the molded cap 128 can be made out of plastic, nylon, metal,wood, or just about any other material. In another embodiment, there isa ¾ round cutout 131 at in the middle of the molded cap 128. At theproximal end of the thumbscrew is a round projection 132 that fitswithin the cutout 131. This gives the molded cap 128 a degree of freedomof movement, which helps accommodate some differences in the size andshape of the distal end of a cartridge 2.

Some tires or items that need to be inflated are so thick or thematerial so dense that it is very difficult for the average person toforce the insertion tube through the item by hand. FIGS. 45-58 show adevice that allows for the tire repair tool 1, and more specifically theinsertion tube 4 with a spiral self-boring tip to be power driven intothe tire.

Specifically, as shown in the figures, this embodiment of the tirerepair kit 133 has a driver housing 137 with a cutaway section 135 wideand long enough into which a cartridge 2 can be fitted. At the distalend 136 of the driver housing 137 is a shank mount 138 to which a powerdrill can be attached. At the proximal end of the driver housing is ahollowed out groove 139, 140 on each side of the driver housing throughwhich pivot arms 141, 142 extend from each side of the distal end of thebody 142. In one embodiment a ringlet 143, 144, rivet, or any otherappropriate structure prevents the pivot arms 141, 142 from slipping outof the hollowed out groove 139, 140.

Notches 145, 146 in the body 149 allow for the body to swing and matewith the extended arms 147, 148 of driver housing 137. Specifically, thebody 142 is swung into an “open position.” A cartridge 2 is fitted intothe threads 152 of the body 149, and the seal (not shown) of thecartridge 2 is pierced by cartridge tip piercing component 203. Thecartridge is completely rotated until air passage is blocked. A wideinsertion tube 54 is positioned at the proximal end of the body 142. Atthe proximal end of the insertion tube 54, there is a large repair plug57 connected to a larger spiral conical metal tip 154. The repair plug57 connected to the spiral conical metal tip 154 may be inserted intothe insertion tube 54 and the insertion tube 54 is screwed into theproximal end of the body 149.

The cartridge 2 is swung into position within the body, and the body 149is then pushed back into the driver housing 134 such that notches 145,146 in the body 142 allow for the body to and mate with the extendedarms 147, 148 of driver housing 137, further securing the body 142 anddriver housing 134 together.

The shank mount 138 is attached to the power drill. The power drill isturned on, and the insertion tube 54 is then drilled into the tire. Thedriver housing 137 is rotated out of position, and the cartridge 2 isturned counterclockwise slightly to allow air, gases, or liquid/gascombinations from the cartridge 2 to travel through the body 149 and outthe insertion tube 54 through hole 207 and into the tire as shown in thefigures. The power drill with the insertion tube 54 is withdrawn fromthe tire, leaving behind the spiral conical metal tip 154 on the insideof the tire, and the repair plug 57 filling in the hole in the tire,preventing further leakage.

It should be noted that the order in which this operation is carried outmay be varied.

There are situations where cartridges do not provide enough air to fillup large tires such as truck tires, or where using a multitude of CO₂cartridges is not practical. In those instances, an external source ofCO₂, gas, or air is needed. In one embodiment, a cartridge less tirerepair tool 208 has a hollow air collection shell 209 having a stem 210.The stem may be connected to a hose supplying air to the tire orinflatable. The hollow air collection shell 209 is threadably connectedto a body 211 by means of threads 212 on the collection shell 209complementary to the threads 213 on the body 211. In another embodiment,the body 211, shell 209, and stem 210 are integrally connected, and canbe one piece.

The body 211 has no need for an insert pin or any similar structure. Ithas a flow through air passageway 214 and a control button switch 107described supra, to control the filling of the tire. In the image shown,the particular stem has a Schrader valve section which is utilized toattach a portable repair inflator/compressor source to inflate tiresthrough the injury. As before, to repair larger tires, the device has aninsertion tube 54 with repair plug 57. The device 208 is connected to aportable compressor 215, which is in turn connected to a car charger bymeans of a charger adapter 216. It should be noted that this is not alimiting feature as the device 208 could be attached to any pump, aswell as to any power source. It bears emphasizing that the tool housingis hollow and has the same male threads as other tools having acartridge 2 as described above. Hence, one can use the body and theinsertion tube with a cartridge if desired, if the body 3 has acartridge piercing tip.

As shown in FIG. 61, the cartridge less repair tool 208 can operate onDC or AC power compressor hooks up its air line via a quick connect orother connector means to inflate the tire with any type of gas, normallyair or nitrogen gas. As previously noted, virtually any non-combustiblegas can be used. In one embodiment of the disclosure, one of the chiefcharacteristics of this innovation is that the tool housing is hollowand has the same male threads as a threaded CO₂ so the embodiment shownabove with the push button valve and threaded insertion tube is thatsame embodiment that can be used with threaded insertion tubes. Itshould be noted that in one embodiment of the disclosure, a cartridgetip piercing component 203 is fitted within the body 211. Any practicaladapter to deliver air from a compressor to the body can be used.

In another embodiment (FIGS. 62 and 63), the body 3 of the repair tool217 is attached to another empty housing 218. The housing 218 with acoupler 219 that can be attached to a hose or specialized housing byloosening the threaded nut 220, which in this case is hexagonal. Thethreaded nut 220 is then moved towards the distal end of the coupler219. The hose is or other flexible cable is slipped through the nut 220,over the distal end of the coupler 219 and up to the proximal end of thecoupler 219. The threaded nut is tightened to the threaded collar 221 ofthe coupler 219, with the hose or cable between the threaded collar 221and the threaded nut 220.

The coupler 219 and housing 218 is threaded into a Schraeder male valvestem connector body 222, which is connected to an insertion tube 54 anda repair plug 57. It should be noted that any body 3 that can be fittedwith a “large” insertion tube 57 can also be fitted with a regularinsertion tube 4 as the size of the threaded mount is the same. Also, inthe present device, the empty housing (or air chamber) 218 is threadedonto the body 218 just as a gas cartridge 2 would.

In another embodiment, the coupler is threaded 222, over which an airhose or a Schrader valve can be threaded. In another embodiment, 223 ofthe coupler is threaded, and an air hose with a male thread can beattached to the coupler. The air hose itself can be used of anyappropriate material including but not limited to rubber, plastic,nylon, polyurethane, braided stainless steel, other plastic hosematerials and any combination thereof.

Another embodiment attaches a coiled air hose 224 connected to the body3 by means of an adapter 225. A cartridge 2 is attached to distal end ofthe body 3. A first threaded arm 226 connected to the first side of theadapter 225 is threaded into the proximal end 402 of the body 3 (Notethat in all of the embodiments where there are threads there can be thereverse of which thread is threaded into the other thread). The secondthreaded arm 227 of the adapter is connected to a coiled hose 228 orother type of hose. The proximal end 229 of the coiled hose 229 isattached to a Schrader or Presta valve stem 230. Other valve stems couldbe used in other embodiments. In yet another embodiment, the adapter 225also has a female threaded port 231 large enough to accept a threadedpressure gauge 232. The distal end of the hose has a threaded connection401 which is threaded over the second threaded arm.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 66-68, a CO₂ cartridge 2 isattached to a sealant dispenser 233 for filling and sealing tires. Thesealant dispenser 233 has at its distal end female threads 234 to whichthe cartridge 2 is attached. It has a top wall 235, a bottom wall 236,and a distal wall 237 containing the female threads or other attachmentdevices, and a tip piercing component 238. At the proximal end is adispenser needle 239 attached to an end cap 240 that is removable sothat the tire sealant can be poured in. Within the sealant dispenser isa movable plunger, 241, which comprises at least one O-ring 242, and inanother embodiment a second O-ring 243 for stability and to preventsealant leakage.

A pressure relief valve 245 allows CO₂ gas escape after the plungerpushes the sealant into the tire. It should be noted that other methodsof attaching the cartridge to the dispenser may be used, such as lockingsnap rings. In another embodiment, there is an insertion tube 4 in placeof a needle 239. The insertion tube 4 has the upper section 33comprising at least one hole 36 through which air and sealant passes,and the lower section 34 has an opening through which a repair plug 40fits. The upper and lower sections are separated by wall 35. There isalso a valve tube 246, which, when the pressure relief valve is pressed,air travels from the release valve 247, through the valve tube 246 andinto the upper section of the insertion tube and out through the atleast one hole 36.

To operate, the sealant dispenser 233 is filled with the sealant, andthe removable end cap 240 is fitted back on the proximal end of thesealant dispenser 233. The CO₂ cartridge is attached, the CO₂ seal ispunctured and the plunger 241 moves forward, dispensing the sealantthrough the dispenser needle 239 or through the insertion tube 4 and outthrough the at least one hole 36. The release of the sealant should beat a reasonably fast but controlled rate of speed. As with otherdescriptions supra, elements may be added to this device. Indeed, allelements in the description, can, where practical, be used with otherelements of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 67, the O-ring plunger isnear the proximal end of the chamber after the sealant has been injectedinto the tire.

When an insertion tube 4 is used the release valve 247 is pressed andair travels through the valve tube 246 which allows both the hole 36 tobe blown clean and allows the tire to be filled to the desired pressure.The release valve 247 is closed by removing one's finger from the valve239. The insertion tube is then withdrawn, leaving behind the plug 40 tocomplete the seal and repair of the tire.

It should also be noted that the flow switch button 107, a pressuregauge 62 with a digital readout 63, reverse blocking valve formed by acheck valve compression spring 46, the ball valve lever 61 and the otherfeatures mentioned, supra, can be used alone or in combination with theother features in all of the embodiments, in this disclosure.

In another embodiment, a bullet nosed cylindrical insertion tube 400 hasa distal cylindrical section 401 and a bullet nosed proximal section402. The proximal section has an air hole or passageway 403. In oneembodiment, The bullet nosed cylindrical insertion tube 400 is bored outup to the air hole 403. A continuous indenture or groove 405 into whichis fitted a repair cord 410 wraps around from one side of the distalsection 401, up and around the proximal end 406, and continues down theother side 408 in a mirror image. Like any insertion tube, the distalend of the insertion tube is threaded into the proximal end of the body3 of the tire repair kit. More specifically, with this embodiment, arepair cord can be added in the insertion tube indentures which can thenbe inserted into the tire. As with other embodiments described above,there is an internal passageway for the gas, air, CO₂, or gas/liquidcombinations to be propelled by a CO₂ type canister using an assemblysimilar to FIG. 1. Once the insertion tube is fitted into the tear inthe tire and the air, CO₂, gas or gas/liquid combination is releasedinto the tire injury, via the air hole 403, the tool can be withdrawn,leaving the repair cord in the tire, thereby filling the tire tear orinjury and preventing air loss. This method of insertion allows a cordonly repair which does not require reaming of the tire with a repairtip.

In alternative embodiments, the distal end of this insertion tube canhave a variety of geometric shapes, and does not have to be cylindrical.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made to the disclosure describedabove without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover modifications andvariations that come within the scope of the appended claims and theirequivalents.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A tire repair tool comprising: a) atransmittal control section capable of transmitting a material formselected from the group consisting of a gas, air, liquid and anycombination thereof, said transmittal control section comprising; 1) aproximal end, said proximal end having an opening; 2) a distal end, saiddistal end having a centralized opening to connectively mate with aproximal end of a gas cartridge, said gas cartridge filled with amaterial selected from the group consisting of air, gas, liquid and anycombinations thereof, and having a puncturable seal at its proximal end;3) an air passage way positioned between said proximal end of said gascartridge and said distal end; 4) a puncture tool which can puncture thepunctureable seal of the gas cartridge, said puncture tool positioned atthe distal end of the transmittal control section along the air passageway; and 5) at least two pivot arms, wherein said at least two pivotarms are positionable 180 degrees from each other on the outside of saidtransmittal control section; b) an elongated insertion tube, saidelongated insertion tube comprising: 1) an air inlet at distal end ofsaid insertion tube being integral with or connectable to said openingof said proximal end of said transmittal control section; and 2) a gasoutlet, for passing air, gas, liquid, or a combinations thereof from agas cartridge through said air passage way through the transmittalcontrol section into the air inlet of the insertion tube and through thegas outlet; c) driver housing, said driver housing having the ability toallow said gas cartridge to fit within said housing; said housingcomprising: i) a body, said body comprising a partial shell said partialshell comprising: A) an opening on one side of said body, allowing forthe insertion of a gas cartridge; and B) an open proximal end; ii) atleast two extension arms at the proximal end of said body, each of saidextension arms positioned 180 degrees from each other on of said openproximal end on said body; iii) at least two grooves, one of each ofsaid grooves positioned at a proximal end of each said extension arms,wherein a first of said at least two pivot arms fits through a first ofsaid at least two grooves, and a second of said at least two pivot armsfits through a second of said at least two grooves, allowing said driverhousing to angularly pivot; iv) an end cap positioned at the distal endof the driver housing; and v) a shank mount positioned centered on topof said end cap, allowing for a connection to a power drill.
 2. The tirerepair tool of claim 1, said elongated insertion tube further comprisingan air impermeable wall, separating said elongated insertion tube intoan upper end and a lower end, said upper end comprising said gas outletand said lower end comprising a repair plug opening positioned at theproximal end of said insertion tube.
 3. The tire repair tool of claim 1,wherein: a) said gas cartridge is threaded at said proximal end; and b)said transmittal control section is threaded at its distal end, suchthat said gas cartridge and said transmittal control section threadablymate.
 4. The tire repair tool of claim 1, wherein said puncture toolfurther comprises: a) a shape selected from the group consisting of acylinder and a polygon; and b) a groove in a side of the puncture toolto allow air to pass from the gas cartridge, thereby allowing air fromsaid gas cartridge to traverse through said transmittal control section,and out through said gas outlet of said insertion tube.
 5. The tirerepair tool of claim 1, further comprising a tire repair plug positionedin a tire repair plug opening of said insertion tube.
 6. The tire repairtool of claim 1, wherein: a) said proximal end of said transmittalcontrol section is threaded around an inside of said proximal end ofsaid transmittal control section; and b) said distal end of saidinsertion tube is threaded around an outside of said insertion tube;such that said proximal end of said transmittal control section and saiddistal end of said insertion tube are threadably mated.
 7. The tirerepair tool of claim 1, further comprising a reverse blocking valvepositioned within an upper end of said insertion tube.
 8. The tirerepair tool of claim 1, further comprising a tire pressure gaugepositioned between the insertion tube and the transmittal controlsection.
 9. The tire repair tool of claim 1, further comprising acontrol valve positioned in the transmittal control section, saidcontrol valve allowing for the control of passage of air from thecartridge through the transmittal control section and out through theinsertion tube.
 10. The tire repair tool of claim 9, wherein saidcontrol valve is positioned at the distal end of the transmittal controlsection.